Detailed list of dental implant costs: What are the components of the crown, surgery, and examination fees?

Detailed list of dental implant costs: What are the components of the crown, surgery, and examination fees?

Dental implants offer a durable and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants have revolutionized restorative dentistry, offering durable and natural-looking solutions for missing teeth. As technology advances, patients now have multiple options tailored to their anatomical needs and budgets. This article explores the types of dental implant technologies and provides a price comparison to help you make informed decisions.

Each dental implant case is unique, and costs will vary based on the specific needs of the patient. Typically, a single dental implant costs between $1,500 and $2,000 (not per procedure). Some patients may only need one dental implant, while others may need multiple implants if they are missing multiple teeth.

There are other costs that will also affect the total cost of dental implants, such as:

Crown – This is the cap placed on top of the implant to look like a natural tooth and can be custom-made or off-the-shelf.

Abutment – ​​This is the part that connects the implant to the crown.

Extractions and root extractions – If necessary, removing damaged teeth or roots before implantation can add to the cost.

Clinical visits – Pre-operative consultations, follow-up visits, and other necessary appointments.

Pre-operative care – The cost of care before surgery.

Post-operative care – Follow-up care to ensure the implant is healing properly and is secure.

Additional costs typically range from $1,500 to $2,800. According to WebMD, the total cost of a single dental implant can range from $3,000 to $4,800 when you include the implant itself.

Dental implants are a long-term solution that can reduce oral health costs in the long run. Dental implants last a lifetime and look and function just like natural teeth. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to develop a personalized treatment plan and get an accurate cost quote based on your individual needs.

Types of Dental Implants:

Endosteal Implants: The most common type, endosteal implants are surgically placed directly into the jawbone. They are typically made of titanium and are suitable for patients with healthy jawbones.

Subperiosteal Implants: These implants are placed under the gum tissue but above the jawbone, making them ideal for patients with insufficient bone height. They consist of a metal frame that fits over the jawbone, with posts protruding through the gums to hold the replacement teeth.

Zygomatic Implants: Used when there is significant bone loss in the upper jaw, zygomatic implants are anchored in the cheekbone (zygoma) rather than the jawbone. This type of implant is less common and typically requires a more complex surgical procedure.

Cost Comparison:

The cost of dental implants varies based on the type of implant, material used, and additional procedures required. Here's a general overview:

Single Dental Implant: The cost typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 per tooth, including the implant, abutment, and crown.

All-on-4 Implants: This procedure replaces a full arch of teeth using four implants and can cost between $12,000 and $50,000 per arch, depending on the materials used.

Zirconia Implants: Zirconia implants may be priced slightly higher than titanium implants due to their aesthetic appeal and material properties.

Insurance and Financing

Most insurance plans don’t cover implants, but may pay for related procedures (e.g., extractions).

Financing options like payment plans or medical credit cards (e.g., CareCredit) can help manage costs.

Insurance Coverage: Dental insurance may cover a portion of the implant procedure, but coverage varies widely. It's advisable to check with your insurance provider for specific details.

Dental implant cost calculation

Why Dental Implants Are an Investment

On the surface, dental implants can seem very expensive, especially when compared to other tooth replacement methods. However, two alternatives, dentures and bridges, typically require repairs or replacements every 5 to 10 years. The cost of this regular maintenance can quickly exceed the cost of simply using dental implants, which last a lifetime (as long as you take good care of them). They also prevent your jawbone from deteriorating—something dentures and bridges can't do.

As your jaw deteriorates, the shape of your face will change. You'll start to look older. Additionally, your existing teeth will start to loosen. The jawbone provides the structure that holds the roots of your teeth in place. Once that's gone, you'll lose your other teeth, too. Keeping the other teeth in your mouth is priceless.

We encourage you to think of dental implants as an investment, not an expense.